About the Book
Book: The Broken Weathervane
Author: Laura DeNooyer
Genre: Women’s fiction, dual timeline fiction, literary fiction, book club fiction
Release Date: September 2, 2025
Two co-workers seek the same information. One wants to publish it; the other has good reasons to keep it hidden.
As Leslie Wickersham, Raymond University grants officer, seeks information to unravel a family mystery, English professor Gregory Stafford seeks an elusive interview with one more Buckwalter relative for his upcoming author biography. While Greg and Leslie guard coveted details from each other, her goals are further complicated by letters of blackmail threatening to reveal all she has worked hard to hide.
In this dual timeline novel alternating between 2015 and the 1950s, loyalty is tested and secrets abound when family honor collides with truth. Leslie grapples with the trade-off: how far will a person go to help a loved one thrive?
Excerpt from the Book
“I was grateful to help those projects receive funds. Each worthy in its own right.”
“But the best project in the world won’t receive funds without a flawless presentation.” He knuckled the desktop. “I once facilitated a board that gave funds to study the mating habits of hummingbirds over one that assessed additional uses of whale oil for machinery and lubricating spacecraft. It boiled down to presentation over practicality.”
Leslie smiled. Did practicality matter at universities? “True. That’s why I started my own business, helping people put their best foot forward.”
He riffled through her application. “Considering all your accolades, what do you perceive is your greatest weakness?”
This question she hated. Her jaw twitched. “Self-criticism, second guessing myself.”
“What do you do then?”
“Call my best friend, then apply creative problem-solving skills.” She cited examples.
“Which book should everyone read? Fiction or non-fiction.”
This question she loved. She plunged ahead. “To Kill A Mockingbird. The hero chooses to fight a losing battle but proceeds because it’s the right thing to do. The issues are just as relevant today. And story is my preferred method for inspiring someone to empathy and action, whether it’s the failing hero, the persecuted African American, or the slighted Boo Radleys.”
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About the Author
Laura DeNooyer thrives on creativity and encouraging it in others. A Calvin College graduate, she is a teacher, wife, parent of four adult children, and an award-winning author of heart-warming historical and contemporary fiction. Her novels are perfect for fans of Patti Callahan Henry, Erin Bartels, or Amanda Cox. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her reading, walking, drinking tea with friends, or taking a road trip.